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Munachimso Grace Ilechukwu is a 19-year-old first-class graduate of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State. In this interview, she reveals how she won three awards at the institution’s 20th Convocation Ceremony held on October 10.
We heard you won three different awards during the 20th Convocation ceremony…
Yes, that’s true. I came out with first class honours BSc. Biochemistry, Best Graduating Student Biochemistry Department and the overall Best Student of the College of Science and Technology.
What inspired you to pursue a degree in Biochemistry?
Well, I wish I had one of those dramatic stories about how I was fascinated by amino acids since I was a baby— you know, the kind that sounds like I came out of the womb holding a microscope. But honestly, that wasn’t the case. The plan was actually for me to study Medicine, but I was too young to get into a public university. I was 15 then, and my parents really liked the idea of Covenant University. When I checked the list of courses, I saw Biochemistry and thought, “Hmm, I’m good at Chemistry and Biology, so why not?” That’s how it started. But along the way, I realized that Biochemistry isn’t just a combination of subject.
How do you feel having achieved this feat at the departmental and college level?
Honestly, I’m happy. But above all, my mind is already moving to what’s next. For me, this isn’t the peak; it’s more like a reminder that I’ve only set the bar, and now I have to scale it higher.
What do you think are the factors that propelled your academic achievements in a competitive institution like Covenant University?
For one, I honestly just hated the idea of failing. That fear pushed me to give my best every time. But beyond that, I was surrounded by people who were just as driven. Most of my friends were high academic achievers too, and that environment made a huge difference. You know those nights before exams when sleep wants to betray you but you turn and see that your friends have read the entire textbook. There is a way sleep will go out of your eyes. I had friends who would literally pour water on me to keep me awake, and we’d drink coffee just to stay alert. It sounds funny now, but it worked. We all wanted to succeed, and that shared hunger really fueled me.
As the best graduating student in Biochemistry, what are your career aspirations, and how do you plan to apply your knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in your field?
Right now, I’m looking at going for my master’s degree — that’s the next natural step for me. But beyond that, I’m open to where the journey leads. Biochemistry is such a wide field. Whether I end up in research, healthcare, or something that connects science with creativity, I just want my work to mean something; to contribute to knowledge, and to touch lives in a practical way.
As a high-achieving student, can you share any leadership experiences or extracurricular activities that you were involved in during your time at Covenant University, and how they shaped your successful performance?
Most of my leadership experiences actually came from chapel. I’ve always been active there, and that’s where I really got the chance to serve and grow. I held roles like Head of Publicity and Cell Head, and from there I learned a lot about balance, working with people, understanding the psychology behind behavior, and even conflict management.
What advice would you give to your peers who may be facing challenges in their academic or professional pursuits, and what qualities do you believe are essential for success in the field of Biochemistry?
I’ll say, first of all — be you. Don’t try to be anyone else. Know yourself. In school, it’s easy to get caught up comparing your journey with someone else’s, but what works for one person might not work for you. Understand your reading habits, your strengths, and even your weaknesses — then maximize and capitalize on them. Once you figure out your rhythm, stay consistent with it.
